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In an expansion of the Hatch Detroit Alumni Program, six Hatch alumni businesses have been awarded grants to improve their business or get closer to opening their brick and mortar storefront.

“We believe strongly in all of the businesses who have competed in the Contest,” says Vittoria Katanski, Executive Director of Hatch Detroit. “This funding from the Detroit Lions will give them the support they deserve as they work to open their doors or advance their business.”

These grants have become available through the Detroit Lions in an extension of the Hatch Detroit Alumni Program. Those who were accepted into the Top 10 Semi Finalist rounds of the Contest and who have followed through on their business plans but need additional support, are eligible to apply. Each year, $40,000 will be awarded to selected alumni projects focused on community building and filling in the gaps in Detroit’s retail offerings.

Detroit Institute of Bagels, currently open in Corktown, will use Hatch funding to create a “bagel park” adjacent to their building, allowing them to host a farmer’s market and other community events. This new landscaping along Michigan Avenue and the M-10 service drive will help create a more visually appealing entry into Corktown from Downtown.

La Feria was the winner of the 2012 Hatch Detroit Contest and has since opened their Spanish Tapas bar in the Cass Corridor. They plan to use the grant funding to construct an outdoor patio, increasing their seating capacity by 50%. This outdoor seating option will promote connectivity between developed districts, act as a connector between Midtown and Downtown and further activate the economic activity on Cass Avenue.

Detroit Vegan Soul recently celebrated their one-year anniversary of their restaurant opening in West Village. They’ll use the grant funding to purchase and install a walk-in freezer, allowing them to improve efficiency and capacity in serving their freshest food daily.

Busted Bra Shop, a 2013 Semi Finalist, has opened to become the only lingerie shop in Detroit—singlehandedly diversifying the city’s retail offerings. They will use the grant to purchase new furniture and fixtures, enhancing the boutique’s antique style. They plan to open a second location in the Penobscot building by Thanksgiving.

Alley Wine is a restaurant and wine bar in the process of building out their storefront and fine-tuning their menus. Within walking distance of Corktown, Mexican Town and Hubbard Farms, Alley Wine aims to become a catalyst for new development along Michigan Avenue from 22nd to Livernois. They will use the Hatch grant to finance an outdoor patio and green space.

Bumbo’s Restaurant & Bar plans to open in Hamtramck. Their seasonal menus feature a modern, fresh take on traditional Polish food with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The Hatch funding will go toward the build out of their kitchen, allowing the business to open and fill another gap in downtown retail offerings.

“As Detroit continues its transformation and growth, development of small businesses will be an integral part of its economic revitalization,” said Tom Lewand, Detroit Lions team president. “Through these grants and our collaboration with Hatch Detroit, we are excited to play a role in supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses here in the city.”

Hatch Detroit is the only charitable organization in Detroit dedicated exclusively to championing and supporting independent storefront retail in the city. Through funding, exposure, and mentoring, Hatch supports both existing and new retail initiatives in the cities of Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck. Though their work on revitalizing the retail landscape and increasing walkability, Hatch Detroit aims to improve the quality of life for Detroit residents.